Albert Ray Harrison

Al was born in Alabama on August 26, 1937 and was raised to be independent, selfless, and loyal by his large extended family. In 1955, he moved to Houston, Texas where he began his career as a printer. Al volunteered to print bulletins for his church, which quickly evolved into a part-time job. His outgoing personality and strong work ethic led to the founding of Harrison Printing, a one-man print shop, in 1968. After running the in-house print shop at Panhandle Eastern Corporation for 33 years, Al retired and devoted his time to his printing business.

Al is survived by his wife Jenny; daughters Julia Ann Ponder (Richard) and Kay Nan Sparks (Rick); grandchildren Andrea Michelle Smith (David), Amanda Kay Garcia, Richard Ryan Sparks, and Daniel Dean Sparks; great grandchildren Joseph, Ella, Heston, Hunter, and Bennett. Al was loved by all who knew him and leaves behind his ‘Traci Lane’ family consisting of many honorary children and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents Roy and Lura Rose Harrison and brother Neal.

Al devoted many years to serving his church and the DeWitt community, where he was a stranger to no one and would never let a car pass without waving. His love for traveling took him on a 15-day rafting adventure through the Grand Canyon as well as hikes through the mountains of Switzerland and waterfalls of Iceland. Al was also fortunate enough to be able to share the beauty of America’s National Parks with his grandson Daniel.

Al’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mike and Cindy Hogle who would drop anything to help when needed; care providers Mary and Grace who helped take care of Al; and the staff at Promedica Hospice who quickly became like family during the last two months of Al’s life.

A memorial service will be held at Redeemer United Methodist Church in DeWitt on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, Al’s family requests donations be made to Redeemer United Methodist Church, 13980 Schavey Rd., DeWitt, MI 48820 or the DeWitt Township Fire Department, 1445 W. Herbison Rd., DeWitt, MI 48820.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grdewitt.com for the Harrison family.